Certainly, in situations where it has been determined that pregnancy can be dangerous for the mother, birth control is clearly permitted. Also under circumstances where mental stability and the well-being of the entire family are threatened, the limited use of birth control may be sanctioned. In all individual cases, a proper Halachic authority (posek) must be asked.

In addition, not all forms of birth control are allowed. One reason is that Jewish tradition is particularly strict regarding the misuse of semen. Thus, forms of birth control which prevent full physical contact are expressly prohibited.

It is important to note that the various methods of birth control each have particular health issues and, in addition, may complicate one's observance of the laws of Family Purity (for example, when cycles may be disrupted). Far from being out of the ordinary or inappropriate, rabbinic authorities are constantly consulted regarding these issues and are constantly reviewing the latest medical technology in light of Jewish Law.

The reader is encouraged to seek out a sensitive rabbi with expertise in Jewish Law (Halachah) with whom to discuss such sensitive and personal issues.